Population might be difficult until you unlock the next residence research and can upgrade them all.
My #1 tip would be to sell your non-boosted factories. It is much more efficient to only produce your boosted and trade for the other types, and you will get the population back from those buildings.
You will want room for a lot of granite mines. Having 10 or more is generally the goal.
Also, upgrade the portal as quickly as you can. Your granite and copper production is boosted with a higher level portal, so always upgrade that first.